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Jake Friend
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Jake Friend (born 1 February 1990) is an Australian former rugby league footballer who played as a hooker. He spent his entire first-grade career, spanning 2008 to 2021, with the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL); at the time of his retirement, he was the club's co-captain. Friend won three premierships with the Roosters, in 2013, 2018 and 2019.[4] Internationally, Friend represented Australia in a Test in 2016.

Key Information

Friend also represented the Prime Minister's XIII, World All Stars and Queensland. With the latter, he won the 2020 State of Origin series, playing in all three games, in what would be the final full season of his playing career.[5]

Background

[edit]

Friend was born in Nambour, Queensland, Australia.

Junior career

[edit]

The Noosa Pirates junior joined the Roosters on a scholarship when he was 15 and, in 2008, progressed from SG Ball through to Toyota Cup to the NRL in just four months.[citation needed]

First grade career

[edit]

Friend made his first grade debut for the Sydney Roosters against Canterbury-Bankstown in round 16 of the 2008 NRL season. In the 2009 NRL season, Friend played 21 games for the club as they finished last on the table for the first time since 1966.[6]

Friend finished the 2010 NRL season as the Roosters starting hooker in the 2010 NRL Grand Final. However, the Roosters were defeated 32-8 by the St George Illawarra Dragons at Sydney Olympic Stadium.

Friend playing for the Roosters

Friend's good form continued in 2011 and despite a lacklustre year by the team, he was awarded the club's highest individual honour, the Jack Gibson Medal, after a season of consistent performances.[citation needed]

2013 was a true breakout season for Friend. He maintained a high work rate in defence with an average of 37 tackles a game. He played for the Roosters in their 2013 NRL Grand Final win over Manly-Warringah at ANZ Stadium.[7]

He continued his form in 2014, which started with a starring role for the Sydney Roosters in the 2014 World Club Challenge at hooker, where he was named man of the match in the Australian premiers' 36-14 World Champion victory over Wigan in Sydney. He also won the Ashton Collier medal for Man of the Match in the 2014 ANZAC Game between the Sydney Roosters and St George Illawarra Dragons.

Friend was part of the Eastern Suburbs sides which made preliminary final appearances in 2015 and 2017 but fell short of a grand final appearance on both occasions. In 2018, Friend was part of the side which won their 4th minor premiership in 6 seasons. On 30 September 2018, Friend co-captained Easts in the 2018 NRL Grand Final victory over Melbourne.[8]

At the start of the 2019 NRL season, Friend scored a try for the Sydney Roosters in the club's round 1 defeat against arch rivals South Sydney at the Sydney Cricket Ground. In round 3, Friend was taken from the field with a shoulder injury in the club's 32–18 win over Parramatta at ANZ Stadium. Friend returned to the Easts team for the ANZAC Day match against St George but suffered a torn right bicep and was ruled out for 10 weeks. Friend returned to the Easts side in Round 17 against North Queensland at the Central Coast Stadium. Friend scored a try in a 15–12 defeat.[9][10] The following week against Newcastle, Friend was taken from the field during the club's 48–10 victory at the Sydney Cricket Ground with a fracture to his forearm. Subsequent scans revealed that Friend was ruled out for 8 weeks.[11]

Friend made only 6 appearances for the Sydney Roosters in the 2019 NRL season as the club reached the 2019 NRL Grand Final against Canberra. Friend was a late inclusion for the grand final team after coach Trent Robinson decided to replace Zane Tetevano with Friend. The Sydney Roosters would go on to win the final 14-8 and claim their second consecutive premiership. The premiership victory was Friend's third as a player.[12][13]

On 22 February 2020, Friend played for the Sydney Roosters in their 2020 World Club Challenge victory defeating St Helens R.F.C. 20–12.[14]

Friend played 19 games for the Sydney Roosters in the 2020 NRL season. The club fell short of a third successive premiership losing to Canberra in the elimination final.[15]

On 4 November 2020, Friend made his debut for Queensland[16][17] in Game 1 of the 2020 State of Origin series as they won 18–14 in an upset victory at Adelaide Oval. Friend went on to start in Games 2 and 3. The Maroons won the series 2–1.

On 8 April 2021, Friend announced his immediate retirement from Rugby League[18] due to repeated head knocks,[19] having suffered from an estimated 20 concussions throughout his career.[20][4]

Post playing

[edit]

In 2022, Friend became a coach for the Roosters pathway team alongside former teammate Mitchell Aubusson.[21] On 24 February 2023, Friend was inducted a life member of the Roosters club.[22]

Representative career

[edit]

In 2016, he was selected in Australia's 2016 Four Nations squad as a back-up hooker for captain; Cameron Smith. Friend made his international debut against Scotland off the interchange bench.[23]

Achievements

[edit]
  • NRL Grand Final winner (2013)
  • NRL Grand Final winning Co-Captain (with Boyd Cordner) (2018,2019)
  • NRL Minor Premiership (2013)
  • NRL Minor Premiership (2014)
  • NRL Minor Premiership (2015)
  • NRL Minor Premiership (2018)
  • World Club Challenge winner (2014)
  • World Club Challenge man of the match (2014)
  • Ashton Collier medallist (2014)
  • NRL Grand Final winner (2018)
  • NRL Grand Final winner (2019)
  • World Club Challenge winner (2019)
  • World Club Challenge winner (2020)
  • State of Origin Winner (2020)
  • Ron McAuliffe Medalist (2020)
  • State of Origin Winner (2020)

Statistics

[edit]
Year Team Games Tries FGs Pts
2008 Sydney Roosters 5
2009 21 2 8
2010 19 1 4
2011 24 3 12
2012 24 2 8
2013 27 7 28
2014 23 3 12
2015 22 2 1 9
2016 24 1 4
2017 22 3 12
2018 27
2019 6 2 8
2020 19 1 4
2021 1
Totals 264 27 1 109

Controversy

[edit]

In March 2009, Friend was suspended by the NRL for 2 weeks for high range drink driving offences.[24]

On 27 June 2009, Friend along with Sandor Earl were initially charged with assaulting a woman in Sydney. It was alleged the niece of ABC radio commentator David Morrow 'was punched' at The Tank nightclub in The Rocks. They were quickly cleared of any charges after surveillance video was reviewed.[25]

On 13 December 2009, Friend was arrested and charged by police following an altercation with a taxi driver.[26] As a result, the Roosters terminated his contract. In May 2010, Friend was re-instated in the Roosters team after counselling and rehabilitation.[27][28]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jake Friend

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Jake Friend (born 1 February 1990) is a retired Australian professional footballer who played as a hooker, spending his entire 14-season career with the in the (NRL) from 2008 to 2021. Originating from the Sunshine Coast in , where he began his junior career with the Noosa Pirates, Friend made his NRL debut in Round 16 of the 2008 season against the Canterbury Bulldogs at the age of 18. Over the course of his tenure with the Roosters, he appeared in 264 first-grade matches, captaining 121 of them, while scoring 27 tries and one for a total of 109 points. Friend's contributions were instrumental in the club's success, forming a defensive cornerstone as co-captain alongside and helping secure three NRL Premierships in 2013, 2018, and 2019. His individual excellence earned him the Jack Gibson Medal as the Roosters' player of the year twice, in 2011 and 2016; the Man of the Match award in the 2014 ; and the Ashton-Collier Medal for his standout performance in the 2014 clash against St George Illawarra. Additionally, he received the Ron McAuliffe Medal in 2020 and the James Mathews Clubman of the Year award in 2018. On the representative stage, Friend debuted for in the at age 30, playing all three matches and playing a pivotal role in their historic 3-0 series victory over . He also represented in one Test match in 2016, alongside appearances for the in 2011 and 2016, and the NRL All Stars in 2017. Friend announced his immediate retirement in April 2021, at the age of 31, following medical advice related to repeated concussions sustained throughout his career, prioritizing his long-term health over continuing to play. The Roosters honored his legacy with a special "Celebrate Jake" match in Round 11 of the 2021 season.

Early Life

Background

Jake Friend was born on 1 February 1990 in , , . He grew up in the nearby coastal town of Noosa on the Sunshine Coast, where he was raised by his parents, and Julie Friend, alongside his two younger brothers, Zach and Sam. His family provided strong support for his early athletic pursuits, fostering a competitive environment that emphasized discipline and resilience, though his mother initially limited contact sports to protect him during his childhood. Friend attended Noosa District High School, where he balanced academics with a growing interest in sports. Before committing to , he explored , playing it as his primary sport in his early years, which introduced him to team dynamics and physical conditioning in Queensland's vibrant junior sports scene. This exposure to multiple codes helped build his foundational skills and love for competitive play. At the age of nine, Friend transitioned to , joining the Noosa Pirates club, motivated by the thrill of the game and encouragement from his family and local community. His initial involvement with ignited a lifelong dedication to the sport, setting the stage for his structured junior development.

Junior Career

Jake Friend began his rugby league journey on the Sunshine Coast in , where he was born in . He started playing competitively at age nine for the Noosa Pirates, a local junior club, after initially participating in . During his early teens, Friend caught the attention of legend at an under-14 or under-15 carnival in Redcliffe, leading to his recruitment on a at age 15 around 2005. Friend progressed through Queensland's youth representative pathways, featuring for Sunshine Coast sides at state carnivals and earning selections in Queensland under-age teams, including under-15 and under-18 levels. His standout performances culminated in selection for the Australian Schoolboys team in 2007 while attending Noosa District State High School, where he represented School Sport Rugby League (QSSRL). Upon joining the Roosters' junior system, Friend debuted in the SG Ball Cup in 2007, the club's under-19 development competition, before advancing to the National Youth Competition (NYC), also known as the Cup, in 2008. In his NYC season, he played multiple games as a hooker, demonstrating strong running and defensive capabilities; for instance, he contributed to key wins, including a 46-32 over Melbourne Storm's youth side, while averaging high tackle efficiency in his appearances. These efforts highlighted his skill development in ball-handling and leadership, paving the way for his rapid rise to professional ranks without entering first-grade play during this period.

Club Career

NRL Debut and Early Seasons

Jake Friend made his NRL debut for the on 27 June 2008, in Round 16 against the at the Sydney Football Stadium, coming off the bench as an 18-year-old hooker. He appeared in five matches that rookie season, primarily as a from the interchange bench, contributing to three wins amid the Roosters' struggles. His early exposure highlighted his potential as a defensive enforcer, averaging 24.4 tackles per game with an efficiency of 89.1%. In the 2009 season, Friend solidified his place in the squad, playing 21 games and scoring his first NRL try on 3 April against the in a 24-6 victory. Transitioning to a more regular starting role at hooker, he added two tries overall and averaged 32.8 tackles per game at 89.2% efficiency, helping anchor the Roosters' forward pack during a challenging year. Minor setbacks, including off-field issues that briefly threatened his career, tested his resilience, but he rebounded to extend his contract through 2012. By 2010 and 2011, Friend's role evolved into a core starter, featuring in 19 and 24 games respectively, with one try in 2010 and three in 2011. His defensive impact grew, averaging 38.7 tackles per game in 2010 (90.4% efficiency) and 45.0 in 2011 (90.5%), contributing to the Roosters' turnaround from last place to appearance in 2010. A standout performance came in 2011 when he earned the as the club's Players' Player of the Year for his leadership in tackles and forward momentum. In 2012, he maintained consistency with 24 games, two tries, and a career-high 94.2% tackle efficiency across 922 tackles, further establishing his reputation as a tenacious hooker despite minor injuries limiting full participation in some matches.

Peak Years and Captaincy

During the mid-2010s, Jake Friend emerged as a cornerstone of the ' defense, renowned for his relentless work rate and tackling prowess. Over his 14-season career with the club, he amassed 10,699 tackles, establishing himself as one of the NRL's most durable and effective hookers in stopping opposition plays. His ability to average over 40 tackles per game while maintaining high completion rates, such as 94.3% in 2018 with 1,251 tackles across 27 matches, underscored his rise to prominence as a key forward leader. Friend's leadership culminated in his appointment as club captain in 2015 by coach Trent Robinson, a role he fulfilled for 121 occasions, guiding the team through multiple finals campaigns. He shared co-captaincy duties with in 2018 and 2019, forming a formidable partnership that emphasized discipline and resilience during the Roosters' premiership dynasty. Under their stewardship, the team achieved back-to-back titles, with Friend's on-field presence pivotal in high-stakes matches. Friend's peak years aligned with the Roosters' deepest runs, including four appearances between 2010 and 2019, where he played every minute in critical games. In the against the , Friend started as hooker in a 8-32 loss but led the Roosters with 53 tackles, showcasing his defensive tenacity despite the defeat. The 2013 premiership marked Friend's breakout as a performer, with the Roosters defeating Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles 26-18, followed by strong playoff performances including preliminary in 2014, 2015, and 2017. He recorded 30 tackles, drew a crucial penalty that led to the opening try, and was the team's busiest defender with 31 overall, contributing to a comeback victory from a halftime deficit. This win propelled the Roosters into a dominant era, bolstered by Friend's consistent contributions across 19 playoff games throughout his career. In 2018, Friend co-captained the Roosters to a 21-6 thrashing of the in the Grand Final, delivering one of his finest performances with 43 tackles and key involvement in a sin-binning that shifted momentum. His dominance over Storm hooker Cameron Smith early on set the tone for the defensive masterclass. The 2019 Grand Final against the epitomized Friend's resilience, as he made a miraculous return from a fractured arm sustained 10 weeks earlier, entering as a substitute during a sin-bin period and anchoring the defense in a gritty 14-8 victory. His late-game efforts, including stabilizing the ruck and supporting halfback , helped secure the back-to-back premiership and cement his legacy as a clutch performer.

Retirement Due to Concussions

Throughout his career, Jake Friend endured over 20 documented concussions, with the cumulative effects raising significant concerns about his long-term health. His history of was exacerbated by his high defensive workload as a hooker, often involving relentless tackling that left him vulnerable to impacts. In the , Friend played just one game before his retirement, appearing in Round 1 for the against the Manly Sea Eagles on March 13, where he suffered his latest after being knocked out in the second half during a 30-6 victory. This incident marked his third in six games over the preceding months, prompting extensive medical consultations with specialists who advised against continuing due to the risks of chronic health issues. On April 8, 2021, Friend announced his immediate retirement from professional at age 31, ending a 264-game career with the Roosters to prioritize his well-being and family. The decision elicited widespread emotional responses from the club and peers, underscoring Friend's reputation as a resilient warrior. In his statement, Friend expressed gratitude to his teammates, family, and the Roosters, noting, "It wasn’t an easy decision… right for myself, my family, and the Roosters," while reflecting on the "hell of a ride" that defined his tenure. Roosters head coach Trent Robinson praised Friend's leadership, stating, "Jake has been an incredible player and leader… his leadership has been a key driver of the Club’s success," and emphasized how he elevated those around him. Club chairman Nick Politis added, "The name Jake Friend will always be synonymous with the Sydney Roosters," highlighting his integrity and contributions. Former teammate Cooper Cronk, a fellow premiership winner, paid tribute by calling him "a warrior" and a "tenacious competitor," capturing the admiration from across the league for Friend's unyielding spirit despite the abrupt end to his playing days.

Representative Career

State of Origin

Jake Friend made his State of Origin debut for the in 2020, at the age of 30, following years of near-misses due to injuries and the long tenure of Cameron Smith as the incumbent hooker. His selection came after a standout club season with the , where he captained the team through consistent leadership and high work rates in the middle, earning him a spot in coach Wayne Bennett's squad for the series opener. This call-up fulfilled a lifelong ambition for Friend, who had been on the fringes of camps since 2008 but faced repeated setbacks from concussions and form dips at his club. Friend appeared in all three games of the 2020 State of Origin series, starting at hooker in all three matches, with a substitution early in the decider before returning from the bench, contributing to Queensland's 2-1 series victory over New South Wales—the Maroons' first shield win since 2017. In Game 1 at Adelaide Oval, Queensland edged a 18-14 upset win, with Friend playing the full 80 minutes and completing 56 tackles to anchor the defense in a gritty performance. Game 2 saw a heavy 34-10 loss at ANZ Stadium, where Friend started and led the Maroons with 49 tackles, though the team struggled against New South Wales' dominance in the middle. The series-clinching Game 3 at Suncorp Stadium ended 20-14 in Queensland's favor, with Friend logging around 50 minutes on the field, including a key return stint after being subbed early. Across the series, he recorded no tries but focused on ruck control and forward momentum, completing over 140 tackles in total. A pivotal moment came in Game 3, where Friend selflessly vacated the starting hooker role mid-game to allow Harry Grant to inject energy into the attack, a tactical shift that boosted Queensland's momentum and helped secure the win; Grant later credited Friend's sacrifice for his own breakout performance. Friend's club-honed preparation, emphasizing resilience and team-first mentality despite his history, directly translated to his Origin impact, providing stability at dummy-half and enabling the forwards to dominate key sets. For his efforts, he was awarded the Ron McAuliffe Medal as the ' Players' Player of the Series, recognizing his leadership in a featuring 10 debutants. With three appearances, Friend's Origin career encapsulated a late but impactful contribution to Queensland's resurgence.

International Representation

Friend's international career with the Australian Kangaroos was limited to a single Test appearance, earned through his consistent club form as a reliable hooker for the , despite the traditional priority given to selection. He made his debut off the bench in the 2016 Four Nations opener against at Craven in Hull, entering the game in the second half during Australia's dominant 54-12 victory; Friend recorded no tries or points but contributed to the defensive effort in a match where Australia scored 10 tries. Selected as part of Mal Meninga's 24-man squad as a to incumbent hooker Cameron Smith, Friend's inclusion highlighted his work rate and leadership, though he did not feature in the subsequent pool game against or the semi-final win over . Beyond the Test level, Friend represented in invitational and non-Test internationals that underscored his standing among the NRL's elite. He played two matches for the , first in 2011 against in , where he started at hooker in a 36-22 win, and again in 2016 in , contributing from the interchange bench in a comprehensive 58-0 victory. These appearances, typically featuring top NRL talent as a mid-season showcase, rewarded his reliability without displacing Origin incumbents. Additionally, Friend captained the All Stars in their 2017 annual fixture against the Indigenous All Stars at Newcastle's McDonald Jones Stadium, leading the side in a 34-8 loss but earning praise for his organizational skills in the absence of key players like Cameron Smith. Despite considerations for further international opportunities, including the , Friend was not selected beyond his 2016 debut, with his role often overshadowed by established stars; his cap remained a career highlight amid a focus on club success.

Achievements and Legacy

Team Accomplishments

Jake Friend was an integral part of the ' successful era, contributing to three NRL Premiership victories during his career. In , the Roosters clinched their first premiership since 2002 by defeating the 26-18 in the Grand Final at ANZ Stadium, with Friend starting at hooker and playing a full 80 minutes in the forward pack. The team had topped the regular season ladder that year, showcasing a balanced attack and defense that propelled them through the finals series. The Roosters repeated their success in , overcoming the 21-6 in the decider, where Friend, as co-captain, anchored the middle with his defensive work and quick service from dummy-half. This victory followed a dominant minor premiership campaign, marking the club's return to the top after a challenging period. In 2019, Friend battled back from injury to play in the Grand Final, helping secure a narrow 14-8 win over the for back-to-back titles and the Roosters' 15th premiership overall. On the international stage, the Roosters, with Friend in the lineup, won the World Club Challenge three times against Super League champions. In 2014, they defeated Wigan Warriors 36-14 at Allianz Stadium in Sydney, establishing early dominance in the annual fixture. The 2019 edition saw a 20-8 triumph over Wigan at DW Stadium, with Friend's leadership key to the controlled performance. In 2020, despite travel disruptions, the Roosters edged St Helens 20-12 at Totally Wicked Stadium, completing a hat-trick of world titles. Friend's tenure coincided with the Roosters securing minor premierships in 2013, , 2015, and 2018, reflecting consistent regular-season excellence under coach Trent Robinson. These top finishes highlighted the team's depth and Friend's role in sustaining high performance across multiple seasons. The Roosters also made deep finals runs throughout the , including a 2010 Grand Final appearance and reaching the preliminary finals in and 2020, and semi-finals in 2015 and 2017, before the premiership breakthroughs.

Individual Honors

Throughout his career with the , Jake Friend earned two Jack Gibson Medals, the club's award for player, first in 2011 for his consistent performances during a challenging season and again in 2016 as captain leading the team's resurgence. These honors recognized his and reliability at the hooker position, where he often played full 80-minute games. He was also named Man of the Match in the 2014 , earned the Ashton-Collier Medal for his performance in the 2014 clash against St George Illawarra, and received the James Mathews Clubman of the Year award in 2018. Friend's longevity was marked by celebrations for his 200th NRL game in 2017 against the , where he captained the Roosters in a hard-fought performance, and his 250th game in 2020 against the , becoming only the fourth player in club history to reach that milestone for the Roosters. Defensively, Friend established himself as one of the NRL's premier tacklers, setting a club record with 11,265 career tackles over 264 games for the Roosters and achieving one of the highest single-season totals with 1,031 tackles in 2015, averaging 44.8 per game.

Post-Playing Activities

Coaching Roles

Following his retirement from professional in April 2021 due to repeated concussions, Jake Friend transitioned into a coaching position with the , the club where he had played his entire 14-year NRL career. In 2022, Friend assumed the role of for the Academy, overseeing the club's pathway development program for young players alongside academy CEO Mitchell Aubusson. Friend's responsibilities included mentoring promising talents, with a particular emphasis on guiding young hookers through skill development and instilling the club's core principles of and , drawing from his own reputation as a tenacious defender and leader during his playing days. Adapting to coaching presented hurdles amid his ongoing recovery from concussions, yet Friend's longstanding connection to the Roosters facilitated a smooth entry into the role, allowing him to focus on fostering team cohesion and resilience in academy squads during camps and training sessions. This inaugural season as head coach coincided with notable success in the Roosters' junior ranks, including the Jersey Flegg Cup team's achievement of the 2022 minor premiership, highlighting the effectiveness of the pathway initiatives under Friend's guidance.

Recognition and Media Involvement

Following his retirement, Jake Friend was inducted as a life member of the on 24 February 2023, recognizing his 264 first-grade appearances and leadership as captain during three premiership wins. Friend has maintained a visible media presence post-retirement, appearing as a guest on podcasts to reflect on his career. In March 2025, he featured on the Chiming In podcast, hosted by player agent Steve Gillis and promoted by Fanatics , where he shared insights into his journey from early challenges to becoming an NRL legend. He has also made regular contributions to Roosters Radio, including episodes discussing club history and youth development. Tributes to Friend's legacy often highlight his relentless work ethic and resilience, earning him the moniker of "warrior" in rugby league circles. The Sydney Roosters' official history profiles him as "Jake Friend: The Warrior," emphasizing his record 11,265 tackles and role in defining a generation of success at the club. Media outlets have echoed this, with articles from his retirement period describing him as a "Roosters warrior" whose dedication set a benchmark for toughness despite repeated concussions. Videos, such as career highlight compilations on the Roosters' YouTube channel, further celebrate his impact on the game. In terms of community involvement, Friend co-established the Academy in 2021 with Mitchell Aubusson, a program under the club's foundation that supports young recruits with housing, education, and welfare to foster their development. This initiative has produced NRL debutants like in 2023 and Blake Steep in 2024, underscoring Friend's ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation post-retirement.

Controversies

Off-Field Incidents

In early , Jake Friend faced significant repercussions following a high-range drink-driving offense. He pleaded guilty in , resulting in a $850 fine and a 16-month driving suspension. The NRL imposed a two-week suspension, while the fined him $10,000 from his contract. Later that year, in June 2009, Friend was charged with alongside teammate over an incident at The Tank nightclub in Sydney's The Rocks. The allegation involved Friend ing a woman, identified as the niece of an ABC Radio commentator. In May 2010, Friend was found not guilty and cleared of the charges in court. Friend's troubles escalated in December 2009 with an altercation involving a taxi driver in Sydney's eastern suburbs. After falling asleep in the vehicle, he was woken by police at Randwick station and charged with using offensive language toward officers and failing to pay the fare. The Roosters immediately suspended him indefinitely, and shortly thereafter terminated his contract, citing this as his third alcohol-related incident of the year. He was bailed to appear in Waverley Local Court in January 2010 and underwent counseling and rehabilitation. In May 2010, following successful rehabilitation, the Roosters reinstated him to the squad. In June 2010, shortly after his reinstatement, Friend was charged with possessing prescription drugs without authorization after police found him with Valium tablets near Coogee. He claimed the tablets were for pain relief from a . Friend pleaded guilty in November 2010 but had no recorded and was placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond. The Roosters supported him during the matter, and no further club penalties were imposed. These incidents, occurring during Friend's debut NRL season at age 19, severely tested his early career trajectory and drew widespread media scrutiny, portraying him as a "bad boy" of the league. The cumulative effect led to temporary job loss and public backlash, but his subsequent rehabilitation and return marked a pivotal shift, allowing him to rebuild his reputation over time.

Career Statistics

Club Statistics

Jake Friend played his entire professional club career with the in the (NRL), appearing in 264 first-grade matches from 2008 to 2021. Over this span, he scored 27 tries and one for 109 points and recorded 11,265 tackles, establishing himself as one of the club's most durable and defensively dominant hookers. His contributions were particularly notable in high-stakes games, including 19 finals appearances where he helped secure three premierships in 2013, 2018, and 2019. Friend's seasonal statistics highlight his consistency and progression from a fringe player to a cornerstone of the team. In his debut year of 2008, he played 5 games without scoring, but by 2009, he featured in 21 matches and notched 2 tries. His peak output came in with 27 appearances and 7 tries during the Roosters' premiership-winning campaign. Later seasons saw reduced games due to injuries, such as only 6 in 2019 and 1 in his final 2021 season, but he maintained strong involvement in wins. The table below summarizes his games, tries, and points per season (goals: 0 across all years; 1 in ).
SeasonGamesTriesPoints
2008500
20092128
20101914
201124312
20122428
201327728
201423312
20152229
20162414
201722312
20182700
2019628
20201914
2021100
Total26427109
Positionally, Friend primarily operated as a hooker, starting 229 of his NRL games in that role, while coming off the bench in 35 others. This versatility allowed him to influence games from the front row or reserves, often playing full 80-minute stints as hooker. Defensively, his tackle efficiency was a hallmark, frequently exceeding 90%, as seen in standout performances like 94.4% in a 2019 match and 91% across 23 games in 2018. Key milestones underscored Friend's longevity. He made his NRL debut on June 29, 2008, against the in Round 16, playing 5 games that season as an 18-year-old substitute. His 100th appearance came in 2014, during a period of resurgence for the Roosters. The 200th game occurred in 2020 amid a shortened season due to , where he continued to lead defensively. Friend's final match was a Round 1 win over the in 2021, marking a brief return before .

Representative Statistics

Jake Friend represented in the only once, debuting in at the age of 30 after a long wait behind Cameron Smith. He played all three matches of the series, helping the secure a historic 3-0 over —the first clean sweep for Queensland since 2010. Across these games, Friend made no tries but demonstrated his renowned defensive tenacity, completing 145 tackles in total at an average of approximately 48 per match. In Game 1 at , he recorded 54 tackles and 64 run metres in a 18-14 victory. Game 2 saw him complete 49 tackles in a 34-10 loss at ANZ Stadium, while in the decisive Game 3 at Suncorp Stadium, he led the match with 42 tackles in a 20-14 win. These figures underscore his role as a workhorse hooker, maintaining a high completion rate despite the intense physical demands of the series. Internationally, Friend earned a single Test cap for during the 2016 Rugby League Four Nations tournament, coming off the bench in a 54-12 pool-stage win over at KCOM Stadium in Hull. He scored no points in the match, which was part of 's successful campaign to retain the title. Additionally, Friend appeared in one in 2017, representing the World All Stars in a 28-7 loss to the Indigenous All Stars at Suncorp Stadium, again without scoring. He also featured in two games for the , winning both: a 30-8 over in 2011 and a 24-18 win over in 2016. These non-Test representative fixtures highlighted his versatility and reliability in high-stakes exhibition matches. In total, Friend accumulated seven representative appearances across state and international levels, scoring zero tries and zero points while prioritizing defensive duties. His Origin series stood out for its impact, with his tackle volume establishing key context for Queensland's series dominance, though detailed tackle data for other representative games remains limited. These outings, particularly the 2020 Origin triumph, cemented his legacy as a late-blooming representative performer known for grit over flair.
Match TypeAppearancesTriesTackles (Origin Only)
(QLD)3 (2020 series)0145 total (avg. 48/game)
International (AUS)1 (2016 Four Nations)0N/A
All Stars1 (2017)0N/A
PM's XIII2 (2011, 2016)0N/A
Total70N/A

References

  1. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/players/jake-friend/summary.html
  2. https://www.nrl.com/players/nrl-premiership/retired/jake-friend/
  3. https://www.roosters.com.au/history/our-players/jake-friend-the-warrior/
  4. https://www.thebeast.com.au/people/jake-friend-the-little-general/
  5. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-08/nrl-sydney-roosters-jake-friend-retires-after-concussion-advice/100056828
  6. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/apr/08/jake-friend-retires-from-rugby-league-immediately-due-to-concussions
  7. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2021/05/20/bring-a-friend-free-to-celebrate-jake/
  8. https://www.nrl.com/news/2019/06/01/we-upset-a-few-neighbours-the-ratbag-who-became-an-origin-player/
  9. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2021/04/08/jake-friend-announces-his-immediate-retirement/
  10. https://thebeast.com.au/people/jake-friend-the-little-general/
  11. https://noosadistrictshs.eq.edu.au/our-school/history/legends-of-noosa-district-s-h-s
  12. https://www.sunshinecoastnews.com.au/2021/04/09/noosas-friend-retires-from-nrl-on-medical-advice/
  13. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2021/05/20/roosters-radio-episode-98-jake-friend/
  14. https://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/our-next-nrl-hope/327614/
  15. https://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/noosas-friend-debut-roosters/340967/
  16. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2013/04/04/chiming-into-the-backline/
  17. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/national-youth-competition-2008/round-3/sydney-roosters--y--vs-melbourne-storm--y-/summary.html
  18. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2013/06/26/generation-next-time-to-get-excited/
  19. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/matches/15255
  20. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2009-08-05/roosters-extend-friend-contract/1380186
  21. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2021/04/08/the-unassuming-warrior-how-jake-friend-defined-a-generation-of-success/
  22. https://www.reuters.com/sports/rugby-league-roosters-great-friend-retires-after-repeated-concussions-2021-04-08/
  23. https://www.nrl.com/draw/nrl-premiership/2010/grand-final/dragons-v-roosters/
  24. https://www.nrl.com/draw/nrl-premiership/2013/round-30/roosters-v-sea-eagles/
  25. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/teams/sydney-roosters/records-nrl-finals.html
  26. https://www.nrl.com/draw/nrl-premiership/2018/grand-final/roosters-v-storm/
  27. https://www.nrl.com/news/2018/09/30/grand-final-player-ratings-sydney-roosters-v-melbourne-storm/
  28. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2021/05/20/five-of-the-best-friendys-best-performances/
  29. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/nrl-grand-final-player-ratings-roosters-and-raiders-hits-and-misses-20191006-p52y53.html
  30. https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/roosters-skipper-jake-friend-to-retire-after-suffering-20-concussions/news-story/8854ea7c0e7bf733b127ec2399d79e65
  31. https://www.nrl.com/news/2021/04/08/friend-announces-immediate-retirement/
  32. https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-2021-jake-friend-concussion-head-knock-round-1-roosters-vs-manly-sea-eagles/news-story/79c11d5bdb89adb3d702124758900eb7
  33. https://www.nine.com.au/sport/nrl/sydney-roosters/sydney-roosters-cocaptain-jake-friend-facing-early-retirement-due-to-repeated-concussions-20210403-p5irwc.html
  34. https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/teams/roosters/nrl-news-jake-friend-retirement-roosters-team-concussion-tributes/news-story/5350bc15a513cdb47148897b83d7922d
  35. https://www.nrl.com/news/2020/02/01/resilient-friend-ready-to-fulfil-lifelong-dream-for-maroons/
  36. https://www.nrl.com/news/2020/11/04/origin-i-player-ratings-queensland-maroons/
  37. https://www.nrl.com/draw/state-of-origin/2020/round-2/blues-v-maroons/
  38. https://www.nrl.com/news/2020/11/18/origin-iii-player-ratings-queensland-maroons/
  39. https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/state-of-origin/state-of-origin-2020-jake-friend-harry-grant-qld-vs-nsw-game-iii-maroons-vs-blues/news-story/b3ea4d7d18bf4fbd3e7fc656cf378d95
  40. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2020/12/09/maroons-duo-recognised-for-huge-contributions-in-2020/
  41. https://www.nrl.com/news/2016/10/21/13kangaroos-who-never-played-origin/
  42. https://www.nrl.com/news/2016/10/04/2016-kangaroos-four-nations-squad/
  43. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/oct/26/five-debutants-picked-for-australias-four-nations-opener-against-scotland
  44. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/friends-redemption-continues-in-pms-xiii-20110914-1k8os.html
  45. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2017/02/10/friend-to-captain-world-all-stars/
  46. https://www.nrl.com/news/2016/12/14/friend-a-chance-to-lead-all-star-cast/
  47. https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/boyd-heads-up-meningas-kangaroos-rookies/ivk0vy6sd
  48. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2013/oct/06/nrl-grand-final-manly-sea-eagles-v-sydney-roosters-live
  49. https://www.nrl.com/news/2015/09/28/roosters-2015-season-review/
  50. https://www.nrl.com/draw/nrl-premiership/2019/grand-final/roosters-v-raiders/
  51. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/feb/22/sydney-roosters-beat-wigan-warriors-world-club-challenge
  52. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/let-s-get-2020-started-inside-the-roosters-world-club-challenge-triumph-20200223-p543gy.html
  53. https://www.roosters.com.au/about/records/
  54. https://www.nrl.com/news/2017/05/28/roosters-take-heart-from-fightback/
  55. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2020/06/19/friend-set-to-join-club-champions/
  56. https://www.nrl.com/news/2015/02/23/the-nrls-top-10-tacklers/
  57. https://www.nrl.com/news/2018/08/27/stat-attack-sydney-roosters-hooker-jake-friend-joins-top-tacklers-of-nrl-era/
  58. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2021/04/08/celebrating-the-career-of-jake-friend/
  59. https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/wentworth-courier/sydney-roosters-foundation-how-the-rugby-league-club-is-creating-the-superstars-of-tomorrow-with-the-launch-of-a-new-charity/news-story/c24e806eb45908f332f1db2607e33598
  60. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2022/10/20/club-legends-guiding-next-gen-of-roosters-stars/
  61. https://www.reddit.com/r/nrl/comments/v9xak8/whats_the_buzz_roosters_take_inhouse_talent/
  62. https://www.nrl.com/news/2025/09/10/how-a-roosters-legend-prepared-rookie-for-breakout-season/
  63. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/ministry-of-defence-inside-the-roosters-tackling-factory-20180928-p506ly.html
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  65. https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2023/02/24/boyd-cordner--jake-friend-awarded-life-membership/
  66. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGuYs9HRLBS/
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  68. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/the-sobering-statistic-that-has-jake-friend-on-the-verge-of-retirement-20210405-p57gme.html
  69. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiChXQ0S25I
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  72. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2009-06-24/roosters-player-fined-for-drink-driving/1330636
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  74. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/career-in-the-balance-roosters-suspend-jake-friend-20091214-kr70.html
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  78. https://www.smh.com.au/national/jake-friend-gets-bond-in-drug-case-20101102-17bh1.html
  79. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/three-strikes-and-hes-out-friends-contract-could-be-nixed-after-charge-20091214-ksbz.html
  80. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/players/jake-friend/positions.html
  81. https://www.zerotackle.com/by-the-numbers-round-1-42205/
  82. https://www.wellingtontimes.com.au/story/7000705/friend-always-made-for-queensland-origin/
  83. https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/state-of-origin/state-of-origin-2020-nsw-player-ratings-nathan-cleary-cody-walker-damien-cook-qld-maroons-vs-nsw-blues-game-iii/news-story/b21a7358760e9fefc3696861ef0e2f2e
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